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"Bobby is a massive loss for us. He is not just one player, he is about four players," the Mourneview Park boss said.

"He played left-back, left wing, centre forward and centre midfield. We are losing probably four players with Bobby,

"He is a top, top lad and deserves his chance across the water. He started the first two games of the season for Hearts and came off the bench for the third, so for a young lad of 18 years of age to go over and do that shows you how talented he is."

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Other youngsters to have been handed their chance by Hamilton include Rhys Marshall, James SIngleton, Mark Sykes and Caolan Marron.

"We are so delighted he has got his opportunity, and the hope is some more of our lads get their chance," Hamilton added.

"We obviously want to win silverware with our best players, but if they get the chance to play full-time football then that's great for us.

"We want to give them opportunities. Players like Bobby and the others can act as inspiration for younger players coming through. We had a lot of young players in our starting XI last season. That was incredible.

"It's good having a youth set-up, but unless you're willing to give them a chance then it's pointless. The thing at Glenavon is that if you're good enough, you'll get a chance.

Glenavon manager Gary Hamilton

"That's been the case with Rhys Marshall, Mark Sykes, James Singleton, Caolan Marron and the rest. They have come in, got their chance, and stayed in the team. So there are opportunities there."

Glenavon kick off the new season at home to Linfield on Saturday, and Hamilton is under no illusions ahead of the test.

"It will be a difficult game. Linfield spent a lot of money, as we know," he said.

"They have signed a lot of players. We wish we were in the same position but we're not. That's football. We qualified for Europe and they didn't, but they are still able to sign the calibre of players they are signing.

"They are the biggest club in the country and they can do that. Again, it will be a massive test for us and will be difficult.

"They beat us twice at home last season, but hopefully we can surprise one or two people and reverse that trend."